GREAT COTTAGE w/Heated Pool, Dog- See Note - Allowed, FREE WiFi/Trolley, Steps to Beach, Dining...
**ASK ABOUT LAST-MINUTE DEALS!
This Anna Maria Island cottage offers relaxation in this charming two-bedroom, one-and-a-half baths, classic-style cottage located on a peaceful street just one house off Gulf Drive. You don't even have to cross a road to walk to the beach. What could be nicer?
*****Since the two major hurricanes that hit us last year our poor tiki hut has been through so much! Due to permitting issues, the tiki hut is no longer available at this time. We will update once the tiki hut is rebuilt and ready for use.
This property was once a concert venue called "The Sandbox" and comes complete with a unique backyard, pool, and your own private tiki, as well as a sunset viewing deck! Just steps to the beach.
The Primary bedroom has a king bed, its own TV, and a private half bath attached. The second bedroom features two twin beds and mounted TV. The full bath offers an updated walk-in tiled shower, with a washer and dryer in a separate space.
Enjoy your time in the beachy decorated living room with comfortable seating and a large, flat-screen with Cable as well as WiFi. The kitchen includes a refrigerator (with ice maker, of course), dishwasher, garbage disposal, microwave, new stove, and granite countertops.
Step into the backyard for a tropical oasis that includes a saltwater pool, tiki bar, and a small stage which is now the hammock landing pad! The fridge in the tiki bar keeps your beverages cold as you cool off in the pool or sit on the bar stools and listen to music through outdoor Bose speakers. Catch glimpses of the Gulf and hear the waves at night. You're just a short walk to the beach! There is a cart to carry your stuff to the beach because, after all, you're on vacation.
The Sandbox is within walking distance of a shopping center that includes a Walgreens drug store, Island Creperie, a beach shop, a dollar store, a breakfast restaurant, a German restaurant, a Subway, cupcakes and charcuterie, a hardware store, an ice cream shop, a Dunkin Doughnuts, and a Chinese carryout!
Want more variety? Take the free trolley that runs up and down the Island every 20 minutes.
Come enjoy a relaxed and wonderful vacation at "The Sandbox."
*PET OWNERS: This property is dog friendly for one dog with a maximum weight of 35 pounds and a non-refundable pet fee for the first week. There is an additional fee per week for any additional weeks booked. Also, certain breeds are excluded. It is necessary that you check with our office prior to your trip for details on weight and breed limitations.
A NOTE ABOUT POOL HEAT: If you book online, your reservation will automatically populate with a pool heat charge for one week. If your reservation is for a longer period, someone on our staff will adjust the pool heat rate to reflect the longer stay. We recommend pool heat at this property, regardless of the time of year, as pools near shady trees stay cooler, even in the summer.
Our Cancellation Policy: In order to protect our owners from loss of income, ALL MONIES PAID TOWARDS YOUR RESERVATION MAY BE NON-REFUNDABLE AFTER A CERTAIN DATE! FULL AND PARTIAL REFUNDS MAY BE GIVEN UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS. Ask our office for details, or check your rental agreement.
SPECIAL NOTICE TO VISITORS OF HOLMES BEACH:
1. Per City of Holmes Beach ordinances: "You are vacationing in a residential area. Please be a good neighbor by keeping the noise to a respectful level during the day and night Excessive and unreasonable noise can deprive neighbors of the peaceful enjoyment of their private property."
2. Per City of Holmes Beach ordinances, this unit cannot exceed 6 occupants. This amount includes adults and children of all ages.
3. Per City of Holmes Beach ordinances, we are required to tell you the minimum stay requirement for this property is one week. VRC#18-000044
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
About the area
Holmes Beach
Located by the sea, this cottage is in Ilexhurst, a neighbourhood in Holmes Beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Bradenton Beach and Coquina Beach. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at LECOM Park or IMG Bollettieri Tennis Academy. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and ecotours nearby.
Sarasota, FL (SRQ-Sarasota-Bradenton Intl.) - 26 min drive
Restaurants
Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe - 14 min walk
The Ugly Grouper - 4 min drive
Beach House Waterfront Restaurant - 4 min drive
Wicked Cantina - 3 min drive
Smoqehouse - 2 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does GREAT COTTAGE w/Heated Pool, Dog- See Note - Allowed, FREE WiFi/Trolley, Steps to Beach, Dining... have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.
How much does it cost to stay at GREAT COTTAGE w/Heated Pool, Dog- See Note - Allowed, FREE WiFi/Trolley, Steps to Beach, Dining...?
As of 9 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at GREAT COTTAGE w/Heated Pool, Dog- See Note - Allowed, FREE WiFi/Trolley, Steps to Beach, Dining... on 15 Aug 2026 start from £179, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is GREAT COTTAGE w/Heated Pool, Dog- See Note - Allowed, FREE WiFi/Trolley, Steps to Beach, Dining... pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property.
How much is parking at GREAT COTTAGE w/Heated Pool, Dog- See Note - Allowed, FREE WiFi/Trolley, Steps to Beach, Dining...?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at GREAT COTTAGE w/Heated Pool, Dog- See Note - Allowed, FREE WiFi/Trolley, Steps to Beach, Dining...?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at GREAT COTTAGE w/Heated Pool, Dog- See Note - Allowed, FREE WiFi/Trolley, Steps to Beach, Dining...?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is GREAT COTTAGE w/Heated Pool, Dog- See Note - Allowed, FREE WiFi/Trolley, Steps to Beach, Dining... located?
Located in Ilexhurst, this beach cottage is within a 10-minute walk of Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria Sound. AMI Paddleboard Adventures and West Coast Surf Shop are also within 15 minutes.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Enjoyed the stay and we would certainly return! The host was very responsive and the house was nicely updated. My only recommendation would be for the pool to be heated prior to guests arriving. 5 stars overall though!
Jason S.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jan 2026
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachMobi. Owners, Ed & Candy.
Great little cottage to stay. Perfect for our family of four. Location was great, backyard awesome. Just perfect. Will stay here again.
Brian S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jun 2024
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachMobi. Owners, Ed & Candy.
Pool was great, quick walk to beach. Great location. Nice place to hang out.
Shauna M.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Nov 2021
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy.
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy
We had the best time at time. The pool was clean and warm, the location was great, easy walk to a very clean and private beach. The house is really cute, with all the amenities you could need.
Nicole H.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Nov 2023
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachMobi. Owners, Ed & Candy.
Cannot say enough good about this place. Everything that you’d need for a beach vacation. Yard is amazing and was the perfect place to unwind after a long day on the beach.
Dan F.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Aug 2022
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy
Verified
8/10 Good
Marvin S.
17 Apr 2018
Florida Cute best describes the place! Things are older but the pool and tiki hut are awesome!
The cottage has everything needed for you to enjoy yourself. It’s conveniently located for dining out, very close to beach access and very walkable to most anywhere might want go. Local choices for dining abound. We would definitely rent again
Marvin S.
Stayed 27 nights in Mar 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Hi Marvin - Thank you so much for your review of The Sandbox! Thanks to its great location and the properties' amazing amenities, this home is one of the best places to stay on the island. We look forward to seeing you again soon for another perfect beach vacation! -Ed & Candy, Owners, Beach Rentals
Every year we do a girls trip to FL, this year did not disappoint, the location was amazing (monkey bus a huge bonus) close to shopping, very close to the beach, and on our cooler day, we lounged by the heated pool. Would absolutely recommend.
Misty B.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Nov 2021
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy.
We had the best experience ever renting this property. It had everything we needed for the week. It was very close to the beach. All the food we could ever want. The house came with everything we needed. I got food to cook for a few meals at the house. Perfect perfect perfect location. I don’t want to tell too many people about it because I don’t want to lose an opportunity to get in.
Jaime S.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Oct 2021
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy.
We had a great time! Loved having the pool! The beach was a 3 minute walk. The landscaping gave you the feeling of lots of privacy! Inside was a very comfortable feeling! I would like to have some kind of window covering in the front entry room/ 3rd bedroom. Overall I would recommend it to my friends and definitely come back again!
kathy t.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jul 2022
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Ann B.
15 May 2018
Wonderful!!!
The place is spotless! The house is very comfortable and the kitchen is equipped with everything you need to cook including a nice grill in the backyard. However, we never did because there are so many great restaurants on the island. The beach is a very quick walk and beautiful. The pool is perfect. The tiki bar is fabulous. We hooked our music to the speakers and felt like we were at a private resort. Jo Jo is great!! Already planning our return trip.
Ann B.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Hello Ann! Thank you so much for your review. We're so happy you enjoyed your stay at the Sandbox and all the delicious restaurants on Anna Maria Island! We can't wait to see you again next year for another perfect beach vacation! -Ed & Candy, Owners, Beach Rentals
The Sandbox was perfect for us. Tastefully decorated and rich in character. The tiki bar around the pool included a sound system and a refrigerator. The grounds were exceptionally well maintained. It’s located in the heart of the island and the beach is just a half block away when leave by the back gate. There is a raised deck cleverly built into the rear corner that allows a limited ocean view. We would gladly rent this property again!
Craig W.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Jan 2021
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy.
We loved “The Sandbox”! The house was perfect for our family of 5. The backyard is your own oasis with the greenery, pool, bbq and bar area. The extra fridge outside is a bonus so the kids weren’t going inside with wet suits for drinks. The sunset view from the upper deck was a great way to end every night. Can’t beat this location! This place is a short walk to the beach, stores and short drive to either end of the island. We look forward to another family trip to “The Sandbox”
Rachel A.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 20 May 2022
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Scott L.
1 Jan 2018
Everything we were looking for. Stay here, you will enjoy it
We stayed at this rental for 10 days over the Christmas Holiday. The rental is decorated very nicely, the home is clean and comfortable. We stayed here with our three kids and small dog and it had everything we needed. The outdoor area around the pool was very nice and landscaped and was very private and tropical. The kids loved the heated pool and the adults enjoyed lounging around in the comfortable chairs and cozy hammock. When you have had your fill of the home and pool area. Take a real short walk to the beautiful beach. I highly recommend anyone to stay here you won't be disapponted. Best review I can say about the rental is we would definately stay here again!!
Scott L.
Stayed 10 nights in Dec 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this detailed, and careful review. You were the first guests to stay after our total remodel, so we're thrilled you loved it so much. We put our hearts into this house! :)
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer D.
12 Jan 2019
Beachy Perfection!
This little gem was the perfect home away from home for our family of 6 with kids ages ranged from 23 to 10. Plenty of comfy beds, ample linens, beach towels etc so we were never without. The backyard is truly an oasis. We opted for the pool heat and were happy we did. We used every inch of the back yard, music played daily, walked to the beach to play bocce and football, and just relaxed in the sun. It’s in the perfect location too - easy access to the trolley and shops. You can’t go wrong with this house and we would absolutely rent it again on our next trip to AMI!
Jennifer D.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Hi Jennifer - what a glowing review! Thank you! We're so happy your family enjoyed this home away from home - it sounds like you had such an amazing time! The Sandbox truly is a private little oasis with its private pool, tiki bar, and classy Florida decor. And it's always a plus to be so close to everything Anna Maria Island has to offer. We look forward to helping you plan another perfect beach vacation soon! -Ed and Candy, Owners, Beach Rentals
This was our 14th spring break on AMI. The Sandbox is by far our favorite rental of all! It is a great location; and while you are not right on the beach, you have a beautiful view from the quaint "crows nest"; as well as only a one minute walk to the gorgeous beach. You will LOVE the backyard! It is a paradise oasis; we spent a majority of our time out there. It was amazing. The interior is very tasteful and beachy. The furniture is comfortable and the kitchen is nicely equipped. The home was very clean and the rental management team was most helpful (especially since we were there just prior to the COVID19 shut downs). We already re-booked for next year!
Tracy R.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Apr 2020
Hi Tracy! Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review of The Sandbox!! We are so happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It's hard to beat such a great location that's so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with Beach Rentals Mobi. -Ed & Candy, Owners, Beach Rentals
This property is adorable! The kitchen is large, the decor is cute, the ac works well, short walk to a beach access without having to cross a main road, and the pool with tiki bar is a neat addition. The way the pool maintenance people have the pool vacuum constantly attached does render a good portion of the pool basically unusable so be aware if you have kids as this could be an issue. My main suggestions would be to have a deep clean done, the cookware definitely needs replacing, and the windows need upgrading as some don’t have locks or close without gaps. We did have a roach crawl across us in bed one morning but since we also live in a humid, subtropical beach town we know that can happen even with the best pest control. Overall, we were very happy with our stay and would definitely return.
Annmarie C.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 27 May 2022
Thank you for the review! We are glad to hear you enjoyed the house and its great location. The pool vacuums do keep the pools clean and sand free and are required in all of our pool homes. In the future feel free to give us a call to see if the pool vacuum can be removed. We have not had anyone complain about it affecting their swimming but if it was in your way we can call and see if we can get it removed. The house does have regular pest control service as do all of our rental properties. Unfortunately, bugs do still get in from time to time. However, they would not live long. We will have the cookware and windows checked out by our service team. Thaks again or this review and we hope you return in the future!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Angie H.
22 Nov 2018
Private Little Oasis Steps From the Beach
We stayed here for 4 nights after 3 days at Universal. We needed some down time at the beach. We chose this cottage over a condo right on the ocean because we didn't want to share a pool with anyone else. It was nice heading out to the beach in the morning or evenings, then coming back, showering off right by the pool, then jumping in for a nice leisurely swim with our kiddos. There is a fence in the back that you can exit through to walk to the beach and it takes all of 60 seconds to get to the beautiful sandy shores. There's even a deck by the pool with a view of the ocean if you enjoy sipping coffee or reading with the ocean in sight. This area was quiet and quaint. We loved it. Very close to mom and pop beach restaurants and Publix for groceries. I would love to go back. No problems inside either. Kitchen was well appointed with supplies. Even several rooms for tv watching when you feel like heading in for the night. They left us enough detergent for 4 loads of laundry and plenty of toilet paper. A great time was had by all!!!!
Angie H.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Hi Angie! Thank you so much for your lovely review of The Sandbox! This property is a jewel of Holmes Beach, and we're so glad you enjoyed your stay in this private oasis! The Sandbox has everything that's perfect in a beach vacation: the beach, a private pool, and local flavor. We hope to see you again soon! -Ed & Candy, Owners, Beach Rentals
Me and my family of six stayed at this place it was very nice clean way more than what we expected plenty of space clean the pool was nice short walk to the beach very enjoyable time at this place it will be an every year event for me and my family it’s a must to do at this place
Richard H.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 23 May 2022
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy
This property is exactly as advertised and is very well maintained. It is a great location and the backyard is amazing! The pool area is a relaxing oasis. I can’t say enough about this property 😊 It has everything you need for a fantastic vacation!
Jen C.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Aug 2021
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a
wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great
location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with
another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy.
This house was everything we could have possibly wanted in a true vintage Florida beach cottage. Everything on the interior was updated and decorated beautifully. The kitchen was very well equipped. What really makes this house special is the outdoor space which was our own tropical oasis for the week. Even with red tide, it was a lifesaver having the pool out back. Loved the tiki bar and stereo system but my favorite was the hammock. We felt secluded even though we had neighbors. The house is super convenient to the beach and walking distance to great stores and restaraunts. The only negative would be when the landscapers stopped by. We were enjoying the pool and the outdoor space and a young man began to spray pesticide all around us. We had to ask him to stop. Very disheartening to see so much spraying being done on the island which poisons the insects (which feed the beautiful birds) and the waterways. Not environmentally friendly but I digress. The Sandbox was perfection and would love to stay here again. Finding a better cottage would be hard to do!
lori a.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Aug 2021
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a
wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great
location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with
another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy.
Great experience from check in to check out. The pool was great and the location perfect.
Corey F.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2021
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with another perfect beach vacation with BeachMobi. Owners, Ed & Candy.
We loved this place so much. The house was beautiful, comfortable and convenient with beach and amenities nearby. The backyard oasis is the best: beautifully landscaped and private. The kids loved it!
Tina S.
Response from VrboOwner on 10 May 2021
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a
wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great
location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with
another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy.
Thank you SO MUCH for this amazing review!! We are happy to hear that you had such a
wonderful vacation and enjoyed all that the area has to offer. It is hard to beat such a great
location that is so close to everything. We look forward to seeing you again and helping with
another perfect beach vacation with BeachRentals.mobi owners, Ed & Candy.